Frequently Asked Questions

Does bariatric surgery really work?

Yes. Bariatric surgery will help you lose weight by giving you a constant reminder that certain dietary habits must change. At The Snow Bariatric Center’s aftercare program, you will receive educational material about diet and exercise that will assist you on your journey. Routine follow up has been proven to help with successful weight loss as well. Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix for a weight problem and requires a commitment to continued lifestyle changes.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

For most bariatric surgical procedures, patients must have a body mass index [BMI] of 35 with some associated health problems related to their weight. There is an FDA statement that approves of bariatric surgery for patients with a BMI of 30-35, but most insurance carriers will may not approve the surgery.

For the non-surgical bariatric procedures like the balloons, patients must have a body mass index of at least 27 and no more than 40. These are guidelines which are commonly used by most surgeons.

Will my insurance cover bariatric surgery?

The process for insurance approval for bariatric surgery can be complex. At The Snow Bariatric Center, we want to make the process as easy as possible for you. Call us and we can find out whether you have benefits for your surgery and other details like pre-surgery programs required, health status and other factors. Some insurance carriers are very easy to deal with, but some require extensive pre-surgery requirements for approval. Get a letter from your primary care physician supporting your choice. Call us, we will help you start your journey.

Which bariatric surgery is the right one for me?

At The Snow Bariatric Center, we feel that every patient is unique. All the bariatric surgery procedures that we perform have different benefits, risks and possible weight loss expectations. Do your homework and get an idea of which procedure you feel the most comfortable with. Dr. Snow will answer any questions for you and help you to make the most reasonable choice for your weight loss journey.

How do I become a patient?

Call us at The Snow Bariatric Center and take the first step to a new healthier you. You will be able to schedule an initial consultation with Dr Snow and find out more about your insurance benefits. Our knowledgeable staff will assist you in taking the first step to change your life.

What if my insurance company requires weight loss visits prior to surgery?

We work with a dedicated team of physicians, dieticians, and psychologist that will help with your weight loss visits. Remember, make sure that you attend each visit in sequence.

I have had bariatric surgery before. What information do you need?

The most important part of considering revisional surgery for Dr. Snow is finding out what surgery you had, any complications and any continued problems you might be having. You should bring copies of all operative reports, hospital and ER visits, x-rays, and pictures at your initial consultation. This will help to understand the possible problems that exist and if you are a candidate for revisional bariatric surgery.

What if my insurance company does not cover bariatric surgery?

Sadly, we see this problem with some employers and insurance companies. At The Snow Bariatric Center, we will find a way for you to start your journey to a new you. We offer options for financing and work with you in various ways to make your surgery happen. An investment in your health is the best investment you could ever make. Don’t be discouraged. Our experienced staff can answer any questions you might have.

Will Dr. Snow let patients from other surgeons enter the aftercare program?

Yes. Dr. Snow has been performing bariatric surgery since 2002. One fact that he has learned is that for patients to be successful after their surgery they need adequate aftercare. He has seen patients from other surgeons from all over the world. A good aftercare program like we have can help patients to get back on their weight loss journey.

Will Dr. Snow do adjustments for LAPBAND patients from other surgeons?

Yes. Dr. Snow has performed the LAPBAND® procedure for over 15 years. The key to success for LAPBAND®patients is proper adjustments to LAPBAND®. Inadequate or excessive adjustments often lead to poor dietary choices and poor weight loss. Often times, one adjustment can make a tremendous difference for your success.